This pub is crying out for management. I visited again on Sat evening. Myself and a party of 4 walked in simultaneously. They were busy making their minds up.Nobody was behind the bar but there were two people chatting in the glass wash area. I leant through the doorway that borders the bar and asked for a pint. The chatting stopped and the guy headed for the party of 4 and the girl came up to me and said “I’m going on my break now” and walked off. By the time they got in position the party of 4 were ready to order. A couple of minutes later two guys and a different girl appeared and that’s when I got served .Once again they were chatting away in the wash up area. As I was drinking my pint, stood at the bar , another two customers came to the bar to be served and weren’t even noticed by the 2 in the back. Another lad was serving another couple who had arrived. The staff are inattentive, have no maturity and certainly don’t appear to have any training.I used to enjoy visiting this pub but I’ll give it a miss until proper management...
Read moreA cosy traditional pub in the centre of York but just a little outside of the usual hussle and bustle. It's a little more rough around the edges than the very pristine presentation standards in nearby bars and pubs but that's actually a huge relief, you can be yourself here! There's a decent sized beer garden where you are free to eat also if you like. The food is pub grub and it suffices for a lunch just fine but the food could be better at the prices being charged, you would find better for the same price within a 5 minute walk. It's not bad food by any means, but certainly something worth improving upon. The staff were lovely and polite, even when busy. The beer selection is decent enough, the usual suspects for a British pub as well as some tasty craft options. The ciders, spirits and wines I can't speak much for but there seemed to be a good choice. It's a good location, unique and beautiful building much in line with the York aesthetic and a cracking pub, recommended for sure, but don't hold high expectations...
Read moreThe Golden Lion in York has a tired and dated feel. While some might find this adds to its charm given its age, it’s not what you’d typically expect from a Greene King establishment.
We had booked a table in advance, and it was ready on arrival, which was a positive start. However, the menu seemed reduced compared to other Greene King pubs, offering fewer options. I chose the pie and chips, which was a mixed experience. The pie itself was good, though the crust was a little hard and there were only a few pieces of meat inside. The gravy served on the side was a highlight, pairing well with the small portion of chips provided.
The atmosphere was far from ideal. A football match was playing, creating a noisy environment with children shouting and screaming throughout, making it difficult to relax.
While the pub may appeal to those seeking a traditional vibe, the limited menu, average food, and noisy ambiance made for a disappointing visit. Improvements are needed to make it a venue worth...
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